SoVarGen eyes technology export for RNA Therapy in 2024

South Korea’s Somatic Variations Genomics Co. (SoVarGen) is making strides in developing RNA therapies for intractable brain diseases.

Somatic Variations Genomics Co. (SoVarGen), a South Korean medical science company, is making significant strides in developing RNA therapy for treating intractable brain diseases. With a focus on advancing candidate substances like SVG103 for Type II focal cortical dysplasia, SoVarGen aims to achieve tangible outcomes, including potential exports of these substances by 2024.

Established in 2018 by Chief Science Officer Lee Jeong-ho, also a professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, SoVarGen is dedicated to developing first-in-class drugs for brain diseases. Lee’s research focuses on somatic mutations in brain tissues, a novel approach compared to traditional germline mutation research. His groundbreaking work has been published in prestigious journals and recognized with awards like the Innovators in Science Award from the New York Academy of Sciences.

Advertisement

One of SoVarGen’s key goals for 2024 is to advance to Phase 2 clinical trials for SVG103, a significant milestone in the development of innovative treatments. Additionally, discussions are underway for potential technology exports related to RNA drug candidates, further highlighting the company’s commitment to global impact.

Lee’s inspiration for RNA therapy came from Spinraza, the world’s first RNA therapy approved in the United States in 2016. RNA therapies offer several advantages over conventional treatments, including the ability to target a wide range of proteins with fewer side effects. This scalability is a significant strength of SoVarGen’s technology, with potential applications beyond brain diseases to other organs like the liver and pancreas.

Despite the challenges posed by the complexity of brain diseases and the blood-brain barrier, SoVarGen remains at the forefront of innovation in the field. The company’s focus on RNA therapies represents a paradigm shift in how we approach the treatment of intractable brain diseases, offering hope for patients worldwide.

As Korea’s first medical science enterprise founded by academics, SoVarGen also emphasizes the importance of nurturing future medical scientists. Lee underscores the need for medical school programs to support the development of innovative treatments and drive industry growth.

In conclusion, SoVarGen’s pioneering work in RNA therapy for brain diseases is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in the medical field. With ongoing clinical trials and potential technology exports on the horizon, the company is poised to make a significant impact on global healthcare.